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Mesothelioma & Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos is a toxic substance that was once a common component of many types of insulation and fireproofing materials. A single exposure to asbestos can trigger two lethal conditions: mesothelioma and asbestosis. All too often, people are exposed to asbestos while performing their jobs; since symptoms don't develop immediately, often taking decades to present themselves, people are often initially mystified when they are first diagnosed with one of these serious conditions. There is no cure for mesothelioma or for asbestosis. Treatments can be prohibitively expensive, which is why holding the appropriate party responsible is imperative.

Types Of Mesothelioma

In general, mesothelioma refers to a rare type of cancer that affects the lining of various organs of the body. It develops when people inhale microscopic asbestos fibers, which become wedged in that delicate lining and eventually trigger the disease.

Although there are additional types, the primary kinds of mesothelioma are:

Pleural Mesothelioma - The most common kind of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which attacks the mesothelium, or lining, of the lungs.

Pericardial Mesothelioma - The least common type of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma, causes this rare form of cancer in the lining of the heart.

Coping With Mesothelioma And Asbestosis

A diagnosis of mesothelioma or asbestosis can be devastating; death is the inevitable outcome, but the proper treatment can allow patients to live longer, fuller lives. As expensive as treatment can be, it is critical to determine where the initial exposure to asbestos occurred. With the help of a skilled and experienced personal injury attorney focusing on mesothelioma and asbestos cases, victims of asbestos exposure can seek compensation from those who are responsible for that exposure. Finding an asbestos and mesothelioma lawyer often results in a handsome settlement which helps mesothelioma and asbestosis sufferers afford long term care for themselves, and for their dependents.